The James Stephens corner back twisted his ankle in training last Saturday and an MRI scan later revealed a stress fracture which is likely to see him out of action for at least four weeks.

Tyrrell, who could have been assigned the responsibility to track Deise ace Maurice Shanahan, is currently in cast.

After a raft of winter retirements, the 33-year-old is easily one of the most experienced players at Brian Cody's disposal and his all-action style will be a huge loss to the defending All-Ireland champions.

The eight-time Celtic Cross winner was in scintillating form in their victory over Wexford but was substituted during their Leinster final win having come under pressure from Galway's Jason Flynn. Clara's Shane Prendergast, the man who replaced him on that occasion, is the front runner to wear the number 4 jersey on August 9.

The 2006 All-Ireland-winning captain, who sampled life as a professional baseballer earlier this year with the The Miami Marlins as part of the Toughest Trade, could yet be under pressure to make the biggest date in the hurling calendar on September 6 should his side prevail.